USCIS Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status

About USCIS Form I-539

Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, is filed by certain nonimmigrants who are in the United States and want to extend their current stay or change to another nonimmigrant status. Common users include people in visitor, student, or dependent categories. Co-applicants such as a spouse or children can be added using Form I-539A.

This page is a general guide and helper only. It is not legal or immigration advice. Always download and file the current official form from USCIS at https://www.uscis.gov/i-539, since some USCIS forms must be completed on the official version.

Who needs to complete it

• Visitors in B-1 or B-2 status who want to extend their authorized stay.
• Dependents such as an H-4 or F-2 spouse or child updating or extending status.
• People asking to change from one nonimmigrant category to another while in the country.
• Certain students and exchange visitors following the rules for their category.

How to fill out USCIS Form I-539

1. 1Read the instructions to confirm you are eligible to extend or change status and that your category can use this form.
2. 2Enter your full name, other names used, date of birth, country of birth, and Alien Registration Number if you have one.
3. 3Provide your current US address, immigration status, and the date your current status expires.
4. 4State whether you are applying to extend your stay or to change to a new status, and name the status you want.
5. 5Explain the reason for your request and the length of time you are asking for.
6. 6Answer the eligibility and background questions honestly, including any about other applications you have filed.
7. 7Add any co-applicants on Form I-539A and have each one provide their information.
8. 8Review, sign, and date the application, note any preparer or interpreter, and file it with the supporting documents listed in the instructions.